April 2022 - Hobbs Group Advisors

Retirement Income and the Traditional Portfolio

Posted on April 29, 2022January 22, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Taking withdrawals from a traditional portfolio exposes fixed-income investors to “sequence of returns” danger. In other words, experiencing negative returns early in retirement can deplete your portfolio more quickly than expected and potentially undermine the sustainability of your assets. So you may want to consider a couple of strategies to help manage this concern.

Liquid Assets

The first is to have a pool of very liquid assets to fund two to three years of retirement spending; this may keep you from selling longer-term assets at an inopportune time. Through time, and depending upon market conditions, you may have the opportunity to replenish this cash reserve using gains from your retirement portfolio.

Annuities

Another complementary strategy is to integrate annuities. This can help shift the risk of market volatility off your shoulders and onto the issuing insurance company.

The guarantees of an annuity contract depend on the issuing company’s claims-paying ability. Annuities have contract limitations, fees, and charges, including account and administrative fees, underlying investment management fees, mortality and expense fees, and charges for optional benefits. Most annuities have surrender fees that are usually highest if you take out the money in the initial years of the annuity contact. Withdrawals and income payments are taxed as ordinary income. If a withdrawal is made prior to age 59½, a 10% federal income tax penalty may apply (unless an exception applies).

Until retirement, portfolio optimization largely focuses on the blending of different asset classes in the appropriate measure to create optimal portfolios. But in retirement, investors must integrate different retirement investment vehicles to enhance income and manage risk.

One of the industry’s leading thinkers, Ibbotson Associates, has done a great deal of research around this very idea.

In a landmark study, “Retirement Portfolio and Variable Annuity with Guaranteed Minimum Withdrawal Benefit,” Ibbotson’s research came to several key conclusions that hold important ramifications for meeting the retirement-income challenge.

One of the study’s conclusions was that the addition of a variable annuity with a guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits retirement portfolios—replacing cash or fixed-income allocations. It increases total income while it decreases risk.¹

A successful retirement is so much more than undertaking sound investment strategies. It also requires understanding the “sequence of returns” danger and taking measures to mitigate the risk.

1. The Ibbotson study assumed the investor had a retirement income period of 25 years or longer. For an investor with a shorter horizon, the strategy may not be as beneficial. The guarantees of an annuity contract depend on the issuing company’s claims-paying ability. Annuities are not guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Variable annuities are sold by prospectus, which contains detailed information about investment objectives and risks, as well as charges and expenses. You are encouraged to read the prospectus carefully before you invest or send money to buy a variable annuity contract. The prospectus is available from the insurance company or from your financial professional. Variable annuity subaccounts will fluctuate in value based on market conditions, and may be worth more or less than the original amount invested if the annuity is surrendered.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2024 FMG Suite.

Systematic Withdrawals in Retirement

Posted on April 22, 2022January 22, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Many of us grew up with the concept that making regular, periodic contributions to our retirement account was a sound investment strategy. The idea was that, in a fluctuating market, regularly investing a set amount would enable an individual to buy more shares when prices were low and fewer shares when prices were high.¹

Does this mean that taking regular, periodic withdrawals during retirement makes similar good sense?

Actually, it can be quite problematic.

Systematic withdrawals do the precise opposite of systematic investments by selling fewer shares when the price is high and more shares when the price is low. This, in effect, reduces the number of shares that may be able to participate in any subsequent market recovery.

Here’s an example.

In the accumulation phase, if a portfolio falls by 25%, it will require approximately a 33% return to get back to its pre-decline value.²

In the distribution phase, if you withdraw 5% of your portfolio for income and suffer the same 25% market decline, you would need to see a 43% market rebound to get back to pre-decline value.²

Sequence of Returns

In the accumulation phase, investors tend to focus on average annual rates of return and less on the sequence of the returns. If you’re a buy-and-hold investor, ignoring short-term fluctuations may be a sound long-term approach.

If you are in retirement, however, you absolutely care about the sequence of the annual returns.

For instance, comparable portfolios might deliver the same average annual return over a 20- or 30-year period, but they could have radically different outcomes in terms of account balance and income production. Generally speaking, negative returns in the early years of your retirement can potentially reduce how long your assets can be expected to last.

American writer H.L. Mencken once remarked that “For every complex problem, there is an answer that is clear, simple, and wrong.”

Anticipating a lifetime of withdrawals from a defined asset pool over an indefinite period of time is a complex challenge for which there is no simple solution. Pursuing this challenge can require creative approaches and persistent vigilance.

1. Dollar-cost averaging does not protect against a loss in a declining market or guarantee a profit in a rising market. Dollar-cost averaging is the process of investing a fixed amount of money in an investment vehicle at regular intervals, usually monthly, for an extended period of time regardless of price. Investors should evaluate their financial ability to continue making purchases through periods of declining and rising prices. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. Shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
2. This is a hypothetical example used for illustrative purposes only. It is not representative of any specific investment or combination of investments.

The Financial Literacy Crisis

Posted on April 19, 2022January 23, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Imagine driving a car without a basic understanding of the rules of the road or even how to operate it. Scary thought.

Here’s another scary circumstance – one that is all too real. Many Americans are making financial decisions with minimal financial knowledge of investing, budgeting, and credit. The TIAA Institute conducted a survey on U.S. financial literacy, asking 28 basic questions about retirement savings, debt management, budgeting, and other financial matters. The average respondent answered only about half of the questions correctly.¹

Another recent survey conducted by the Census Bureau found that almost 40% of Americans say that it has been somewhat or very difficult to pay for usual household expenses in the last seven days.²

It has been said that knowledge is power, and if that’s true, then too many Americans lack the power to control their financial futures. Financial success rarely happens by accident; it is typically the outcome of a journey that starts with education.

One of the obstacles to greater financial literacy is the so-called “Lake Wobegon effect.” In other words, we all consider ourselves above average, and based on that belief, it only follows that our financial understanding is above average. Unfortunately, this assumption has a flaw: it may discourage us from learning as much as we need in order to continue adapting to an ever-changing financial landscape.

The more informed we are, the more informed our financial decisions may become. Fortunately, we can consult a wide range of resources in pursuit of greater financial knowledge.

If you are committed to increasing your financial literacy, think about turning to financial professionals with your questions or visit a U.S. Treasury-sponsored website created for that very purpose.³

1.TIAAInstitute.org, 2022
2. Census.gov, 2023
3. MyMoney.gov, 2023

Stop Wasting Money

Posted on April 18, 2022January 23, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Benjamin Franklin once said, “a penny saved is a penny earned.” One way to find the money to meet your spending or saving needs is to examine your current spending habits and consider eliminating money wasters.

Top Money Wasters

Bargain Shopping…and its Expensive Cousin, Impulse Buying:
Fire sales and impulse buying (such as products sold on infomercials) can be money wasters, made worse by how often they sit idly in a closet or drawer.
Unused Subscription Services:
It can be tempting to sign up for the “free trials” many subscription services offer, but don’t forget to cancel after your trial period is up. Forgotten subscription services can eat away at your wealth when you don’t value the subscription anymore. For example, three $30-per-month subscriptions don’t sound like much until you realize they total nearly $1,100 per year.
Cable and Cell:
Call your provider and see if it’s possible to negotiate a new rate. Cell providers, who face stiff competition, may be responsive. Cable companies may be less so, especially if they are a single provider, but you can review your package and make sure you are not paying for service you don’t want.
Paying for Water:
Switching from an essentially free product to one that may cost up to $1.50 a day or more is a real budget leak. Consider purchasing a reusable container and using that during the day.
Gourmet Coffee:
$4 or $5 a day may not seem like a lot of money, but when Americans step into a gourmet coffee shop, they may often buy more than just the coffee. Consider brewing your own. It can be ready before you leave for work, and it’ll save you the wait in the drive-through line!
Eating Out:
While dining out may be one of life’s pleasures, eating out is often less about socialization and more about convenience. Twice a week may not seem like much, but over time it can add up. Try tracking your dining-out expenses for a week. You may be shocked at how fast costs add up.

A Cheat Sheet for Sending Your Kid to College

Posted on April 18, 2022January 23, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

College marks a great milestone in a child’s life. It may be the first time he or she will live away from home. Dropping off your child at college may be an experience loaded with emotions, so here are a few tips for a smoother transition.

Accept that the Parent-Child Dynamic Has Changed

Your child is always your child, and will need you as much as ever. However, parents need to understand that their role has transitioned from “supervisor” to “mentor.”

Make the Move Simple

Do not bring the moving van. Not only will it embarrass your child, but dorm rooms just aren’t that large. Bring only what’s appropriate.

Consider pre-ordering essentials (soap, bedding, shower caddy, etc.) for pick-up at a location by the school. This will save space whether your trip is by car or plane.

Don’t Leave “The Talk” to the Drop-off

While college represents a gateway to many wonderful experiences, parents will want to have a serious conversation about safety, responsible behavior, finances, and expectations about staying in touch.

Do not leave it for the drop-off. It is sure to sour the moment and may rush a conversation that deserves more time and mutual dialogue.

Time to Learn Financial Responsibility

Your child will need spending money. You may want to provide a debit card attached to an account that has a set sum for the full semester, or one that’s refreshed with monthly deposits. College is a perfect time to learn budgeting.

Take the Lead from Your Child

Let your child have the discretion to make decisions about what to bring. However important you think a dust skirt for the bed is, try to avoid fights. Let your child make a mistake. It’s the best way to learn.

Your child will likely send signals when it’s time for you to go. Listen to them. It’s time for him or her to begin connecting with new roommates. Expect that final “good-bye dinner” to be canceled since your child may prefer an impromptu introductory dinner with the new roommate.

Prevent a Rift: Money Tips for Newlyweds

Posted on April 15, 2022January 23, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

One survey found that 35% of couples attribute stress in their relationship to financial issues. This could explain why some experts say financial problems are one of the top reasons marriages fail.^1,2

Fortunately, when couples work together to address their finances, they may be able to mitigate many of the problems money may cause in a marriage.

10 Tips for Newly Married Couples

Communication – Couples should consider talking about their financial goals, memories, and habits, as each partner may come into the marriage with fundamental differences in experiences and outlooks driving their behaviors.
Set Goals – Setting goals establishes a common objective that both partners become committed to pursuing.
Create a Budget – A budget is an exercise for developing a spending and savings plan that is designed to reflect mutually agreed-upon priorities.
Set the Foundation for Your Financial House – Identify assets and debts. Look to begin reducing debts, while building your emergency fund.
Work Together – By sharing the financial decision-making, both spouses are vested in all choices, reducing the friction that can come from a single decision-maker.
Set a Minimum Threshold for Big Expenses – While possessing a level of individual spending latitude is reasonable, large expenditures should only be made with both spouses’ consent. Agreeing to a purchase amount should require a mutual decision.
Set Up Regular Meetings – Set aside a predetermined time once or twice a month to discuss finances. Talk about budgeting, upcoming expenses, and any changes in circumstances
Update and Revise – As a newly married couple, you may need to update the beneficiaries on your accounts, reevaluate your insurance coverage, and revise (or create) your will.³
Love, Trust, and Honesty – Approach contentious subjects with care and understanding, be honest about money decisions you know your spouse might be upset with, and trust your spouse to be responsible with handling finances.
Consider Speaking with a Financial Professional – A financial professional may offer insights to help you work through the critical financial decisions that all married couples face.

1. CNBC.com, May 9, 2023
2. Investopedia.com, June 10, 2023
3. When drafting a will, consider enlisting the help of a legal, tax, or financial professional who may be able to offer additional insight, especially if you have a large estate or complex family situation.

Catch-Up Contributions

Posted on April 15, 2022January 22, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

A recent survey found that 28% of workers are very confident about having enough money to live comfortably through their retirement years. At the same time, 27% are not confident.¹

In 2001 congress passed a law that can help older workers make up for lost time. But few may understand how this generous offer can add up over time.²

The “catch-up” provision allows workers who are over age 50 to make contributions to their qualified retirement plans in excess of the limits imposed on younger workers.

How It Works

Contributions to a traditional 401(k) plan are limited to $22,500 in 2023. Those who are over age 50 – or who reach age 50 before the end of the year – may be eligible to set aside up to $30,000 in 2023.³

Setting aside an extra $7,500 each year into a tax-deferred retirement account has the potential to make a big difference in the eventual balance of the account, and by extension, in the eventual income the account may generate. (See accompanying chart.)

Catch-Up Contributions and the Bottom Line

This chart traces the hypothetical balances of two 401(k) plans. The blue line traces a 401(k) account into which $22,500 annual contributions are made each year. The red line traces a 401(k) account into which an additional $7,500 in contributions are made each year, for a total of $30,000 in contributions a year.

Upon reaching retirement at age 67, both accounts begin making withdrawals of $7,000 a month.

The hypothetical account without catch-up contributions will be exhausted before its beneficiary reaches age 80. Keep in mind, the IRS regularly updates these maximum contribution limits.

This hypothetical example is used for comparison purposes and is not intended to represent the past or future performance of any investment. Fees and other expenses were not considered in the illustration. Actual returns may vary.

Both accounts assume an annual rate of return of 5%. The rate of return on investments will vary over time, particularly for longer-term investments.

In most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 73. Withdrawals from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plans are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.

1. EBRI.org, 2022
2. Economic Growth and Tax Relief Act of 2001
3. IRS.gov, 2023. Catch-up contributions also are allowed for 403(b) and 457 plans. Distributions from 401(k) plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. In most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 73.

How a Roth Conversion Might Benefit You: Garet Strange SC Business Review

Posted on April 14, 2022January 19, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Considering the conversion to a Roth IRA? Not sure when to do so or if it will even benefit you?

Everyone has a different situation, and the best time for someone else to convert may not be the best time for you. Garet Strange, Executive Vice President, spends time with Mike Switzer discussing the benefits of conversion and the best time to make the switch for different individuals.

Listen to the interview here.

Personal Finance Tips for Military Families

Posted on April 14, 2022January 23, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

One study found that military personnel have more credit problems and are more likely to make late house payments than their civilian counterparts.¹

While the financial situation of military personnel and their families mirrors the general population in many respects, heavy indebtedness and mismanagement of credit cards may be especially acute issues for service members.

Of course, military families face unique challenges, such as deployment to conflict zones, overseas assignments, and the constancy of change, making personal finance even more critical.

Money Tips to Consider

Some Programs Available
- The Savings Deposit Program allows eligible personnel serving in designated combat zones to invest up to $10,000 and receive a return of up to 10%.²
- Saving in a Roth IRA may be a good idea if you receive tax-free combat-zone pay. This allows you to deposit tax-free income and take tax-free qualified withdrawals in retirement.³
- The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers the full cost of in-state tuition, up to between 36 and 48 months, depending on your circumstances.⁴
- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance protects your family with low-cost life insurance.⁵
Set Goals—Like any mission, success begins with articulating goals you want to pursue.
Establish a Budget—A budget provides the financial discipline that may help you control spending impulses that can lead to greater debt levels.
Pay Yourself First—Determine how much money you need to set aside to reach your savings goal, deduct this amount from your paycheck, and attempt to live within the limits of what remains.
Establish an Emergency Fund—Uncertainty marks the life of military families, so be sure you have an emergency fund that allows you to be as prepared as possible for these changes.
Control Your Debt—Indebtedness is one of the enemies of financial independence.

As you think through your financial goals, remember, taking action today is your first and most important step.

1. Debt.org, April 24, 2022
2. Defense.gov. The Savings Deposit Program is a benefit offered to eligible personnel serving in designated combat zones. The guaranteed rate of return is subject to change.
3. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals also can be taken under certain other circumstances, such as a result of the owner’s death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.
4. VA.gov, 2023
5. VA.gov, 2023. Several factors will affect the cost and availability of life insurance, including age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Life insurance policies have expenses, including mortality and other charges. If a policy is surrendered prematurely, the policyholder also may pay surrender charges and have income tax implications. You should consider determining whether you are insurable before implementing a strategy involving life insurance. Any guarantees associated with a policy are dependent on the ability of the issuing insurance company to continue making claim payments.

Please Leave Home Without It

Posted on April 13, 2022January 23, 2024 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Concerns over identity theft continue to grow, especially with the news of data breaches at major companies and financial institutions. Unfortunately, you have little control over when a company is hacked, but you do have control over your own actions.

Ten Things to Leave at Home

Social Security Card – A Social Security card may be used to open credit card accounts and take out loans. Taking it out where it might be stolen is tantamount to handing the keys to the kingdom to a thief. As for seniors, while Social Security numbers have been removed from Medicare cards, your Medicare Beneficiary Identifier number is also worth shielding.
Multiple Credit Cards – Carry a single card for general use and emergencies. Only carry another card if you plan on using it that day. Keeping all those cards at home will save you considerable time in reporting lost cards and disputing charges should your purse or wallet get stolen.
Gift Cards and Certificates – They’re like cash. Keep them home until you’re ready to use them.
Spare Keys – Your wallet or purse contains your home address. No sense making the theft worse by endangering your home and family.
USB Drive – Very convenient for carrying important files, but it’s gone forever if your wallet or purse is lost or stolen.
Password Cheat Sheet – Carrying passwords makes it possible for them to fall into the wrong hands. Don’t carry your cheat sheet? How about those ATM PINs? That’s a sure way to lose cash fast.
Checks – Carrying around a blank check is an obvious risk. Even a canceled check is a risk, since it has your routing and account numbers, which may be used to transfer cash.
Receipts – Besides being bulky, they will contain the last five numbers of your credit card. A thief might be able to “phish” to find the rest of these numbers.
Passport – A thief could use this to travel under your name, open bank accounts, or even get a Social Security card. Not good.
Business Cards – Consider a separate case and carry them in your pocket. Do you really want a thief to know where you work?